The Hill of Uisneach , one of the most sacred and historic sanctuaries in the world is the location of the first great Beltaine bonfire to be lit in Ireland. In ancient times, all of Ireland would be dark on the eve of Beltane and when the great bonfire was lit on Uisneach Hill, it was visible to over a quarter of Ireland. Then as the fires were seen from far away more fires would be lit on the the surrounding hills, and then an outer ring lit on the coasts.

During the week leading up the the festival, we explore the surrounding areas of the Irish Heartlands from our base in Mullingar. Included are the royal sites of Rathcroghan, Lough Gur and Eamain Macha. Other attractions include Athlone, Kilbeggan, Trim, Rock of Cahsel, Loughcrew and Newgrange.